The Next Generation of Cousins

I often find myself smiling at the next generation of cousins in our family. We are so lucky to have one another.

I’m always beaming at the fact that my sisters, brother, sister in law, and cousins are, and will be, my forever friends. We grew up side-by-side as childhood playmates, spending weekends, holidays, and vacations together.

We have been through thick and thin – weddings, birthdays, deaths in the family, and even the occasional feud.  I can call any one of my family members at any hour of the night if I need advice or a good laugh. Annabelle is fortunate that she will grow up with my best friend’s children – she will spend summers, holidays, and the occasional long weekend playing til her heart’s content.

Since my brother and cousin are a bit older, they started having children before us. Without revealing their names, I is the oldest at 13, M at 9, F and D are the middle kids at 7, and the twins M and J are 4. I’ve watched my nephews and second cousins grow up, excitedly awaiting the day that I would add my own little kid into the mix.

Fancy that my cousin Sam and I both got pregnant in 2013 and now have our own addition to the next generation of cousins.

I finally was able to watch Annabelle play around with ALL of her cousins last weekend at Mia’s birthday party. The cousin love was STRONG – even though Annabelle can be a little shy at times, she eventually warmed up to Reese. My favorite part of the day was when all of the children were in the bounce house together, jumping around, laughing, and loving life.

My nephew Finn adores his cousin Annabelle.

I find it incredible a 7 year old enjoys playing with an 18 month old, but when your cousins, age doesn’t matter.  Ian, Finn’s older brother, is 13 years old. Right now he likes to watch the kids play, but I know it won’t be long until he is carrying Annabelle around too. He is always telling me how smart she is and seems amazed at her toddler abilities. Ian will be a great role model for Annabelle and I couldn’t ask for anyone better to be her biggest cousin.

One night while we were home, I watched Annabelle and Finn build a block castle, play with Annabelle’s baby doll, and then he pushed her around in the baby stroller. We didn’t hear any arguing, only quiet talking and laughing. They truly enjoy one another’s company!

Yes… that is a baby doll stroller Annabelle decided to sit in. I also think she told him to push her around the house.

Unfortunately, I wasn’t as camera happy as I usually am (since it was kind of a somber trip home). We will be back in July for our annual Cape Cod family vacation and I promised myself to take more photos. It will be fun to watch the next generation of US get bigger when my sisters (and maybe us) add to the wild gang.

Are you close with your cousins?